Nimodipine
Information about Nimodipine
Nimodipine uses
Nimodipine is used in the treatment of subarachnoid haemorrhage.
How nimodipine works
Nimodipine is a calcium channel blocker. It relaxes the narrow blood vessels in the brain and makes the blood flow more easily. This prevents brain damage after bleeding around the brain.
Common side effects of nimodipine
Headache, Nausea, Rash, Slow heart rate, Low blood platelets, Hypotension (low blood pressure), Tachycardia, Ileus, Increased liver enzymes, Inflammation of vein
Available Medicine for Nimodipine
Expert advice for Nimodipine
- Take it as per dose and duration suggested by your doctor.
- A sudden drop in your blood pressure may occur, especially when you first start taking Nimodipine. To lower the chance of feeling dizzy or passing out, rise slowly if you have been sitting or lying down.
- Your doctor will monitor your blood pressure and heart rate during the treatment with this medicine.
- Do not take any antacids for 2 hours before or after taking Nimodipine as it may affect the working of the medicine.
- Inform your doctor if you are pregnant, planning a pregnancy or breastfeeding.
Frequently asked questions for Nimodipine
Nimodipine
Q. What is Nimodipine?
Nimodipine belongs to a class of medicines known as calcium channel blockers. Nimodipine is used to prevent any further damage to the brain function which happens after subarachnoid haemorrhage (bleeding around the brain when a weak nerve in the brain bursts).
Q. How does Nimodipine work?
Nimodipine relaxes and widens the blood vessels so that blood can flow easily through them, thereby improving the blood supply to the brain. This as a result decreases brain damage due to internal bleeding in the brain and also prevents vasospasm (reflex narrowing of blood vessels caused by this bleeding).
Q. I am better now after taking Nimodipine. Can I stop taking it?
No, do not stop taking Nimodipine even if you start feeling better after taking it. This medicine is usually taken for 2 to 4 weeks. However, you must continue taking Nimodipine in the dose and duration advised by your doctor. If you stop taking it suddenly without consulting your doctor, your condition may worsen. Therefore, it is very important to follow your doctor’s instructions carefully and keep your doctor informed if you face any issues while taking Nimodipine.